How to Upgrade, Downgrade or Change Your Wells Fargo Credit Card

Updated: June 11, 2024

Updated: June 11, 2024

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Wells Fargo account holders can change their credit cards if they are primary or secondary Visa cardholders. Simply log in to your account, click your current credit card and select “Switch My Credit Card.” You can also switch your card by calling a Wells Fargo representative at 1-800-642-4720. Additionally, Wells Fargo may reach out with an offer to upgrade your credit card — at this point, you can switch cards and take advantage of any included promotional offers.

Swapping products can be a smart alternative to canceling your credit card, as your credit score will take a hit if you do the latter. However, remember that upgrading or downgrading your card can have advantages and drawbacks. MoneyGeek highlights what to expect when trading Wells Fargo credit cards, including product change requirements, to make switching cards simpler.

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Rules When Upgrading or Downgrading Credit Cards With Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo’s guidelines for account holders who want to swap credit cards may influence the kind of card you can get.

The Wells Fargo website doesn’t explicitly mention the requirements needed to upgrade or downgrade a credit card. A good rule of thumb is to have a solid record of on-time payments and a stellar credit score. You can reach out to the issuer through the customer service hotline at 1-800-642-4720 and get more information.

Note that the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act doesn’t allow issuers to increase interest rates or fees within the first twelve months after an account is opened.

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SHOULD YOU GET A NEW CREDIT CARD?

Applying for another credit card may be beneficial if you value new-card perks like an early spend bonus or 0% introductory APR. Ensure your new card matches your needs since it is an added financial responsibility.

What Will Happen to My Reward Points and Miles?

Your Wells Fargo rewards won’t disappear during the lifetime of your account as long as the account stays active. Any rewards you have will transfer to your new credit card if you upgrade or downgrade to a new card.

When Should You Upgrade Your Wells Fargo Credit Card?

A Wells Fargo credit card upgrade is ideal for those who prefer an increased rewards rate. Some examples include offers like earning extra rewards points or the opportunity to earn unlimited 2% cash back rewards.

Pros and Cons of Upgrading

Pros
  • Wells Fargo Active Cash has unlimited 2% cash rewards
  • Earn 3X points on restaurants, travel and more with Wells Fargo Autograph
  • As of writing, all Wells Fargo cards have a $0 annual fee
Cons
  • A welcome offer is most likely unavailable
  • Limited Wells Fargo credit card upgrade options

Wells Fargo Upgrade Options

There are several possible Wells Fargo upgrade options if you’re looking for better benefits and rewards.

Upgrade Wells Fargo Reflect Credit Card to Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash Card offers a $0 annual fee and the chance to earn unlimited 2% cash rewards. You can get a 0% introductory APR for the first 15 months from when you open your account. The upgrade also comes with cellphone protection of up to $600 in case of covered losses like theft.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Credit Card logo for Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
MoneyGeek Rating
5/ of 5

Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)

Upgrade Hotels.com Rewards Visa Credit Card to Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card

With the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card, you can earn unlimited 3X points on qualified restaurant, travel, gas, transit, phone plan and streaming service expenses. All other purchases garner 1X points. The card also comes with a 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months, plus assistance for travel and emergency services.

Other Upgrade Options
Wells Fargo Card
Upgrade Options
  • Hotels.com Rewards Visa Credit Card
  • Wells Fargo Reflect Credit Card
  • Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card
  • Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card

When Should You Downgrade Your Wells Fargo Credit Card?

Downgrading might be a good option if you prefer a lower interest rate or don’t need rewards or cash back points. Evaluate perks and drawbacks before you downgrade your credit card.

Pros and Cons of Downgrading

Pros
  • Potentially lower APR
  • Wells Fargo rewards can transfer
Cons
  • Usually no welcome offer
  • You lose certain perks

Wells Fargo Downgrade Options

Assess your financial needs first — Wells Fargo cards generally don’t have an annual fee and offer similar APR ranges. If you don’t need to earn cash rewards or points, there are a few Wells Fargo card downgrade options worth considering.

Downgrade Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card to Wells Fargo Reflect Credit Card

The Wells Fargo Reflect card is a good match for those who want a straightforward credit card. The card has a 0% introductory APR for the first 18 months of account opening and a $0 annual fee. Its starting APR at 17.24% is also slightly lower than other Wells Fargo cards. The card offers 24/7 roadside dispatch and cellphone protection of up to $600.

Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

Rewards Rate
This card doesn't offer cash back, miles, or point...
APR
18.24%, 24.74%, or 29.99% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)
Other Downgrade Options
Wells Fargo Card
Downgrade Options
  • Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card
  • Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card
  • Hotels.com Rewards Visa Credit Card
  • Wells Fargo Reflect Credit Card

When to Cancel Your Wells Fargo Card

We suggest you reach out to your issuer before you cancel your credit card or close your account. Canceling your credit card can ding your credit score so it’s only advisable if you’ve exhausted all possible options.

Alternatives to Canceling Your Credit Card

Your credit score can take a hit if you cancel your credit card. While temporary, having an outstanding balance tends to impact your credit standing.

Consider the following options before you cancel your card:

  • Up your credit limit: You might be able to secure a higher limit if you’ve paid balances on time or used your credit card responsibly.
  • Negotiate with your issuer: Wells Fargo may allow cardholders to switch products or negotiate payment options.
  • Use statement credits: It might be possible to convert rewards into statement credits and reduce the balance.

Only cancel your credit card if you’re sure it’s the best move. Remember to bring your balance to $0 before doing so. If you’re unsure about your decision, try consulting your issuer.

Other Helpful Decision-Making Q&As

MoneyGeek answers the most commonly asked questions about swapping Wells Fargo credit cards so you know what to expect.

How long does it take to receive a new card?
What should my credit score be to upgrade my credit card?
How do I know the status of my product change application?
Does upgrading or downgrading a card hurt your credit score?
Does canceling a credit card hurt your credit score?
What happens after I upgrade or downgrade?

Still Not Sure About This Card? Consider These Options

Consider browsing the best credit cards with a $0 annual fee and top low-interest cards if you’re looking to switch credit card products.

Learn More About Wells Fargo Credit Cards

Learn More About Credit Cards in General

About Doug Milnes, CFA


Doug Milnes, CFA headshot

Doug Milnes is a CFA charter holder with over 10 years of experience in corporate finance and the Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. Formerly, he performed valuations for Duff and Phelps and financial planning and analysis for various companies. His analysis has been cited by U.S. News and World Report, The Hill, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times and many other outlets.

Milnes holds a master’s degree in data science from Northwestern University. He geeks out on helping people feel on top of their credit card use, from managing debt to optimizing rewards.


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*Rates, fees or bonuses may vary or include specific stipulations. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. We recommend visiting the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information available.
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